Rudy Oscar Swanson, 82, of Lewiston, passed away Sunday, Aug. 16, 2020, at his home, because of pulmonary fibrosis.
He was born in 1938 in Moscow to Albin and Esther (Dahlin) Swanson. Rudy grew up in Troy and graduated from Troy High School. He worked at the brick plant and logged. Rudy married Joanne Glenn in 1958. In 1962, they moved to Clarkston and he worked for Washington Water Power. He transferred to Grangeville in 1964 as a lineman. Rudy later became an Avista local representative stationed in Craigmont. After retirement he moved to Lewiston.
Rudy was active in church and community organizations throughout the years. He attended Orchards Community Church in Lewiston. He drove van for veterans’ appointments and food pick up for Community Action Food Bank.
Rudy is survived by his spouse, Joanne Swanson of Lewiston; daughters Colleen (Greg) Merrill of Lewiston and Alia (Jim) Riggers of Winchester; grandsons Dane (Andrea) Merrill and Paul (April) Merrill, both of Lewiston; granddaughter Britt Merrill of Lewiston; brother Roger (Barbara) Swanson of Lewiston; and five great-grandkids and one on the way, all of Lewiston.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers Don Swanson and Pete Larson.
A service is set for 2 p.m. Friday at Orchards Community Church, officiated by Matt Walden and livestreamed on the Orchards Community Church YouTube channel.
Memorial donations may be sent to Operation Smile at operationsmile.com or by mail to 3641 Faculty Boulevard, Virginia Beach, VA 23453. Please sign the online guestbook at malcomsfuneralhome.com.
Service Information
- Date & Time
- Friday, August 21, 2:00 PM
- Additional Details
- A service is set for 2 p.m. Friday at Orchards Community Church, officiated by Matt Walden and livestreamed on the Orchards Community Church YouTube channel. Memorial donations may be sent to Operation Smile at operationsmile.com or by mail to 3641 Faculty Boulevard, Virginia Beach, VA 23453. Please sign the online guestbook at malcomsfuneralhome.com.
Condolences
Nathan Leigh
Rudy introduced himself to me the second day I was in Craigmont in August of 1993. From that day forward, he was a dear friend. I loved his wry wit and forthrightness. He was a steadfast man who stood above a many many others. I will miss him greatly.
Friday, August 28, 2020 10:09 AM
Mike & Charlene Brocke
Joanne, Colleen & Alia,
It must be hard to say goodby, even though temporarily, to Rudy. I wish I could have spent more time getting to know both him and all of you better. I really enjoyed the few times that I spent with him and all of you. You are a very special and blessed family. Also, I was very pleased to hear about Rudy's trust in Jesus and that the Gospel was clearly presented at the memorial service. Thanks for posting the service on YouTube and may God comfort you during this season of life.
Saturday, August 22, 2020 3:46 PM
Charles Woody
Sorry to hear about Rudy. I was quite a shock. Sorry I didn't make the service
Friday, August 21, 2020 2:09 PM
Terry & Linda Thompson
Joanne, Our hearts go out to you and know that you are loved by so many especially the Lord. I am sorry we are stuck in Thailand, and so far away at this time. Hope and faith and love will never die - we have that promise from Our Lord. No one can ever take your memories away from you. Thank you for your love and encouragement to us over the years. I remember the last time we were home sitting in your living room and talking about good times. Love Terry and Linda
Friday, August 21, 2020 5:27 AM
Janene N. Alley
I am thinking of you. I know that your girls are there to help and I know that you all miss Rudy, but you, also, know he is at peace now. You need to take care of yourselves.
Thursday, August 20, 2020 9:28 AM
Dawn Polotto
Colleen and family,
So sorry to read about the loss of your father. May God give you the strength to get thru this trying time.
Wednesday, August 19, 2020 9:29 AM